Job Openings in U.S. Increased to 6.66 Million in June

(Bloomberg) -- U.S. job openings edged higher in June, providing evidence of a job market that's still tight with Americans feeling confident enough to leave their positions for other work, Labor Department data showed Tuesday.

Key Takeaways

The elevated number of job postings shows companies are still expanding though having trouble finding employees from a shrinking pool or because of a skills mismatch. It's another sign, in line with other employment data, that shows a robust labor market.

In May, a record 3.48 million Americans quit their positions. The steady quits rate shows Americans leaving their jobs remain confident about finding new work that likely pays more and offers better benefits. Although it lags the Labor Department's main jobs data by a month, the JOLTS report adds context to monthly payrolls figures by measuring dynamics such as resignations, help-wanted ads and the pace of hiring.

Other Details

• Openings increased in construction, manufacturing, finance, and education and health services; fell in trade and transportation
• In the 12 months through June, the economy created a net 2.5 million jobs, representing 66.6 million hires and 64.1 million separations.

To contact the reporter on this story: Katia Dmitrieva in Washington at edmitrieva1@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Scott Lanman at slanman@bloomberg.net, Jeff Kearns, Randall Woods

©2018 Bloomberg L.P.